Dear Michael: School fashion trends alarm this parent

Sunday

Sep 30, 2012 at 12:01 AMSep 30, 2012 at 10:52 AM

My teenage daughter and I went school shopping this past weekend, and it made me very uncomfortable when I noticed that the new trends are much more “provocative” than I remember them being. I don’t want to smother my daughter by dictating her wardrobe choices, but I also don’t want her to display a negative image of herself to her peers. What should I do?

Michael Serode

Dear Michael,

My teenage daughter and I went school shopping this past weekend, and it made me very uncomfortable when I noticed that the new trends are much more “provocative” than I remember them being. I don’t want to smother my daughter by dictating her wardrobe choices, but I also don’t want her to display a negative image of herself to her peers. What should I do?

Sincerely, Concerned Parent

Dear Concerned,

Girlfriend, it’s September! How risqué could fall clothing really be? As long as your daughter is not going to school naked and adheres to her school’s dress code, I’d save your energy and pick a more important battle (summer’s trends maybe!).

Love, Your Diva Michael

Dear Michael,

I’ve recently made a goal for myself that basically entails keeping winter weight gain at an all-time minimum. I realize this is going to be harder than I originally thought what with Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching. What are your suggestions for staying disciplined through this delicious time of year?

Sincerely, Snack Attacked

Dear Snacks,

Who doesn’t indulge on the holidays? If you’re really worried about packing on the pounds this winter, don’t do it by sitting out your favorite meals! It’s fairly well known that most unwanted bulges are a result from snacking at night, so try setting a curfew for kitchen. That way you can have your cake and eat it too, pun intended.

Love, Your Diva Michael

Dear Michael,

I’ve recently started my freshman year of college and am living on campus in a dorm room with two roommates. The girls I share the room with seem to be accustomed to a completely different lifestyle than I am (things like excessive partying and drinking). I want them to like me and I want to fit in, but I don’t want to compromise my morals and standards. Should I just go with their flow or go off on my own, maybe even switch rooms?

Sincerely, Goody Twoshoes

Dear Goody,

Unfortunately, Sweetie, your entire college career is going to revolve somewhat around alcohol and belligerent hall/roommates. Whether or not you chose to participate in these social activities is entirely up to you. You don’t have to compromise who are to be well liked, and if you do then I definitely suggest finding some new roommates who are more your style!

Love, Your Diva Michael

Michael Serode is the owner/operator of Salon Serode in Pembroke, Mass., and your divine advice columnist. Send questions to salonserode@gmail.com.